Study reveals 24% lower risk of dementia by caring for grandchildren

Enjoying time with grandchildren is a cherished part of life for many older adults. A recent study found that older adults who spend a moderate amount of time each week caring for their grandchildren can actually reduce their risk of developing dementia by 24%. The research also suggests that there is an optimal weekly duration for caregiving to achieve the best preventive effect against dementia.

Endocrinologist and metabolic specialist Dr. Cai Ming-jie pointed out on Facebook that grandparents who spend a few hours daily caring for their grandchildren are not just helping the family—it turns out it's also beneficial for their brain health. He cited a study published in July 2025, focusing on older adults of Chinese descent, which explored the link between caring for grandchildren and the risk of dementia (cognitive impairment).

In the study, researchers from Xiamen University in China analyzed data from the "China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study" collected between 2013 and 2018. The analysis included 10,058 Chinese adults aged 50 to 79 from 28 provinces in China who did not have dementia at the start. Their cognitive abilities were assessed through interviews every two years. The findings were published in JAMA Network Open.

To Prevent Dementia, What's the Optimal Weekly Time for Caring for Grandchildren?

The results revealed that grandparents who helped care for their grandchildren for up to 40 hours per week—categorized as "non-intensive care"—had a 24% lower risk of developing dementiacompared to those who provided no care at all. Furthermore, researchers found that grandparents who provided moderate care typically shared the following characteristics:

• Owned a smartphone.
• Used the internet.
• Felt less lonely.

These three key factors together explained nearly 37% of the observed reduction in dementia risk. The researchers noted that using technology requires learning new skills, which effectively promotes social connection and cognitive stimulation. Caring for grandchildren also helps alleviate loneliness by fostering a meaningful social role and increasing intergenerational interaction.

However, the link between caring for grandchildren and reduced dementia risk was only observed in those providing "non-intensive care." The study showed that for grandparents providing intensive care exceeding 40 hours per week, there was no increase or decrease in dementia risk. Researchers indicated that the cognitive benefits of caring for grandchildren appear to have an upper limit, as prolonged childcare often leads to greater stress and burden.

The Key to Prevention Lies in Active Learning and Reducing Loneliness

Why might caring for grandchildren help prevent dementia? Regarding this study, Cai explained that moderate caregiving, which helps reduce loneliness, is beneficial for brain health. Furthermore, grandparents who use smartphones and the internet not only keep up with the times but may also help delay cognitive decline. He suggests that older adults might consider learning to use mobile phones or tablets, or go online to listen to music and watch videos—these everyday activities could be key to protecting brain health.

What Are the Symptoms of Early, Mid, and Late-Stage Dementia?

According to information from the Hong Kong Hospital Authority, dementia is a disease caused by changes in brain nerve cells leading to a decline in brain function. Patients' memory, comprehension, language, learning, calculation, and judgment abilities are affected, and some may also experience changes in emotions, behavior, and sensations.

1. Early-Stage Symptoms (Years 1-2)
At this stage, family and friends often mistake the symptoms for normal aging. Common signs include:

• Loss of short-term memory.
• Difficulty expressing or understanding abstract concepts, such as describing physical discomfort or feelings.
• Unpredictable mood or behavioral changes.
• Difficulty learning new things or following complex instructions.
• Reduced judgment.
• Basic self-care activities are still manageable but may require reminders.

2. Mid-Stage Symptoms (Years 2-5)
As the condition progresses, earlier difficulties become more pronounced. Symptoms include:

• Confusion between distant memories and recent reality; occasional difficulty finding the right words.
• Changes in behavior and personality; may become emotionally unstable.
• Requires assistance with daily self-care activities.

3. Late-Stage Symptoms (After Year 5)
Patients become almost entirely dependent on others for care and cannot manage self-care. Symptoms include:

• Significant memory impairment, forgetting even familiar people and things.
• Decline in physical activity and mental state.
• Inability to express oneself or communicate effectively.
• Inability to handle daily life; requires long-term care.
• Disrupted circadian rhythm.